Injection devices banned from bins

Friday

Aug 29, 2008 at 12:01 AM

STOCKTON - Syringes, hypodermic needles, lancets and other devices used to inject medicine or take blood samples may no longer be placed in household trash or recycling bins starting Sept. 1, when a new state law takes effect.

The Record

STOCKTON - Syringes, hypodermic needles, lancets and other devices used to inject medicine or take blood samples may no longer be placed in household trash or recycling bins starting Sept. 1, when a new state law takes effect.

The law also requires these sharp objects to be transported in a government-approved biohazard container.

Needles can pose a danger to children, home health care providers, or sanitation and sewage treatment workers, says the San Joaquin County Environmental Health Department.

An accidental sticking could lead to the transmittal of blood-borne diseases, officials said.

To follow the new law, ask your doctor or pharmacy if they have a take-back program for needles. The California Department of Public Health also keeps a list of services where you can mail used needles; visit www.cdph.ca.gov.

Or they can be dropped off at the Household Hazardous Waste facility, 7850 RA Bridgeford St. near the Stockton Metropolitan Airport. The needles and other such devices must be sealed in containers that are available for free at the facility.

For more information, call (209) 468-3066 or visit www.safeneedledisposal.org.

Never miss a story

Choose the plan that's right for you.
Digital access or digital and print delivery.